360 Degree rotatable lifter arm for log singulator

Abstract

A device for singulating individual logs from groups of logs for linear or transverse processing. The log singulator having a fully rotatable lifter arm member, i.e., 360 degrees rotatable, which is used to singulate logs from groups of logs. The rotatable axle of the lifter arm may be located above the upstream "V" of the log cradle member. Furthermore, the lifter arm will positively push the logs over the top point of the log cradle because it is rounded at the top point, thereby allowing the tip of lifter arm to remain in contact with the log. Lifter arms with 1 to 4 lifter arm tips are disclosed.

Description

1. Field of the InventionThe present invention relates generally to log singulators, and more particularly, is concerned with a log singulator having a 360-degree rotatable lifting arm.2. Description of the Prior ArtLog singulators have been described in the prior art. However, none of the prior art devices disclose the unique features of the present invention.In U.S. Pat. No. 5,423,417, dated Jun. 13, 1995, Redekop disclosed a log singulator for sorting, feeding and indexing in a downstream direction a stack of logs into a stream of logs which has a first notched step and a first set of collectively actuable lift arms pivotable about a first axis, and a second set of collectively actuable lift arms downstream of the first set of lift arms, actuable independently of the first set of collectively actuable lift arms and pivotable about a second axis, the first set of lift arms actuable from a lowered position to a raised position whereby the first set of lift arms are engageable with ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The rotary motion design enhances productivity by reducing power consumption by up to 25%, ensures proper alignment of logs, and allows for efficient transfer of crooked or knotty logs, improving overall log processing efficiency.

Problems solved by technology

However, none of the prior art devices disclose the unique features of the present invention.

This particular motion has several disadvantages: the return motion of the lifting mechanism utilizes time in which the forward flow of logs being singulated is stopped; the reciprocating motion requires a bulky, complicated mechanism to perform the forward and backward motion; as logs are lifted over the top of the V-shaped log cradle, movement of the log to complete the motion to the bottom of the upstream V-shaped pocket is dependent on gravity; logs with knots or that are crooked may not slide into proper position; the reciprocating lifting device is of an eccentric design, meaning that its weight is not balanced, and, this off center weight disadvantage utilizes approximately 25% of the total power to move a log from stage to stage; the V-shaped log cradles surfaces may be covered with smooth steel plating, and, the plating makes crooked or knotty logs "stand off" from the bottom of the V log cradle, and, if the logs are too far away from the lift position of the pocket, they will not be transferred from stage to stage.

Images